A NEW PANGOLIN SPECIES?
The Zoological Society of India (ZSI) has proposed the recognition of a new pangolin species, the Indo-Burmese pangolin. Genetic analysis suggests this species diverged from the Chinese pangolin approximately 3.4 million years ago. Indian scientists now believe that these are distinct species, and if officially recognised by the scientific and conservation communities, the Indo-Burmese pangolin would become the ninth known pangolin species globally and the fifth endemic to Asia.
The late identification of this species is attributed to historically limited genetic studies. Mukesh Thakur, a senior scientist at ZSI, explained in an interview with Mongabay that pangolin taxonomy has long been based on morphology. However, researchers have uncovered key genetic differences with the advent of genomic tools and high-throughput sequencing. While the Indo-Burmese pangolin shares traits with other Asian species, notable differences in body size, cranial structure, and scale patterns have been observed.
Image credit: Zoological Survey of India
This species is believed to inhabit regions where the ranges of both the Chinese and Indian pangolins overlap. However, pangolins' solitary, nocturnal nature and low population densities make studying them in the wild challenging, which may have contributed to the historical misidentification of this species.
While the classification of a new species is exciting, more nuclear and morphological data are needed to validate its distinction officially. This process will take time, as the Indo-Burmese pangolin is not the only cryptic species undergoing assessment. In 2023, scientists identified another potential species, informally referred to as the Asian mysterious pangolin, which is believed to have diverged from the Sunda and Philippine pangolins around 5 million years ago. While further research is being conducted, there is a significant risk that these newly identified species, while only just recognised, could already be classified as endangered or even critically endangered under the IUCN Red List. It's unknown how many pangolins are left in the world because of how difficult to monitor in the wild, but all eight species of pangolin are classified as vulnerable to critically endangered.
AN AGE-OLD THREAT
It's tragic that a species only now being distinguished may already be on the brink of extinction. Like all pangolins, those in the Manis genus are threatened by habitat destruction and relentless poaching for their meat and scales for use in traditional medicines. Unfortunately, the Indo-Burmese pangolin range overlaps with major trafficking routes in South and Southeast Asia, leaving it particularly vulnerable.
The UK-based Environmental Investigation Agency has warned that officially recognising the Indo-Burmese pangolin as a separate species could, paradoxically, put it at even greater risk. While all eight currently recognised pangolin species are protected from commercial trade under Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), some pangolin trade remains listed under Appendix II. The potential for a loophole raises concerns that traffickers might exploit the legal grey area surrounding newly identified species, making them even more susceptible to poaching and illicit trade.
Much like their Asian counterparts, Indo-Burmese pangolins face additional threats from deforestation, climate change, and the fragmentation of their habitats. Given these pressures, if officially classified, the Indo-Burmese pangolin is likely to be listed as either endangered or critically endangered from the outset.
THE IMPORTANCE OF PANGOLINS
Pangolins play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of their ecosystems. As insectivores, they help regulate populations of ants and termites, preventing these insects from becoming pests that could harm plant life and agricultural crops. By feeding on ants, pangolins also contribute to soil health, as their burrowing behaviour helps aerate the earth, making it more fertile. Pangolins' interactions with their environment benefit other species as well. For instance, their burrows provide shelter to smaller animals and contribute to the overall biodiversity of their habitats. Removing pangolins from these ecosystems would create a ripple effect that could upset the balance of the entire food chain.
WORLD PANGOLIN DAY 2025
Despite the severe challenges pangolins face, there is hope. Public awareness of pangolins has surged in recent years, leading to stronger conservation efforts and stricter law enforcement. One significant awareness campaign is World Pangolin Day, observed annually on the third Saturday of February. In 2025, this event falls on February 15th.
From increased advocacy to improved legal protections, the fight to save pangolins is gaining momentum. This World Pangolin Day, join the fight to protect the eight (now potentially ten) species of pangolin. This is not just a time for reflection but a time for action. Here are a few ways you can make a difference:
- Raise Awareness: Not familiar with pangolins? Learn about them and share information with friends and family. The more people know about these extraordinary creatures, the stronger the push for conservation will be.
- Support Conservation Organisations: Organisations like the Pangolin Conservation Group and the Wildlife Conservation Society work tirelessly to protect pangolins from poaching and habitat loss. Consider donating or volunteering.
- Educate Others: Misinformation is one of the biggest barriers to pangolin conservation. Spread the word that pangolin scales have no medicinal value and that all pangolins are protected under international law.
- Advocate for Stronger Legislation: Support efforts to strengthen wildlife protection laws and penalties for illegal trafficking. The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) has already placed restrictions on the international trade of pangolins, but enforcement remains a key issue.
- Adopt Sustainable Practices: Many pangolin habitats are under threat from deforestation and human development. Support sustainable and eco-friendly practices that help preserve their natural environments, such as promoting sustainable agriculture and reducing the impact of urban expansion.
Together, we can make a difference and help protect the world’s most trafficked mammal from the brink of extinction.
Let’s keep the scales tipped in favour of pangolins!
